Energy Minister Simon Bridges is taking issue with Green Party charges that oil revenues are falling.
The Greens have produced figures showing oil production declining in the years since National took office in 2008.
Mr Bridges says oil production was higher when the Greens supported the previous Labour Government because oil production rises and falls over time.
He says this is one reason to keep exploring for oil.
Mr Bridges says there are 18 petroleum basins in New Zealand and Taranaki is the only one is being drilled.
